Electoral Politics Overview

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following statements about the reasons for conducting elections are false?

People can indicate which policies they prefer.
People select the representative of their choice is an election.
Elections enable people to judge the performance of the government.
Elections enable people to evaluate the performance of the judiciary. (correct)

Which of these is not a good reason to say that Indian elections are democratic?

In India, everyone above the age of 18 has a right to vote.
India has the largest number of voters in the world. (correct)
In India, the losing parties accept the electoral verdict.
India's Election Commission is very powerful.

Match the following:

It is necessary to keep the voters list up to date because = Some people may have moved away from the area where they voted last. Some constituencies are reserved for SCs and STs so that = Everyone has equal opportunity to elect their representative. Everyone has one and only one vote so that = All candidates must have a fair chance of competing in elections. Party in power is not allowed to use government vehicles because = There is a fair representation of all sections of our society.

List all the different election related activities mentioned in the chapter and arrange them in a time sequence, beginning with the first activity and ending with the last.

The election related activities in order of their occurrence are: Announcing election schedule, nomination, making of voters' list, releasing election manifesto, election campaign, casting of votes, counting of votes, declaration of election results and ordering of re-poll. Signup and view all the answers

Surekha is an officer in charge of ensuring free and fair elections in an assembly constituency in a state. Describe what should she focus on for each of the following stages of election: Election campaign, Polling day.

During the election campaign, Surekha should ensure that the candidates are not bribing the voters. She should ensure that no candidate appeals for votes in the name of caste or religion. She should make sure that no candidate uses government resources for campaigning and that no candidate is allowed to spend more than 25 lakhs in a constituency for Lok Sabha election. During the polling day, Surekha should ensure that the voting takes place in a fair way. Signup and view all the answers

How can we ensure elections are held in a democratic manner? Give two conditions.

Both a & b (B) Signup and view all the answers

Elections are all about 'political competition'

True (A) Signup and view all the answers

When does the term of all the elected representatives come to an end?

True (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is a constituency?

A constituency is a geographic area that elects one representative to a legislative body. Signup and view all the answers

Into how many constituencies is the country divided for Lok Sabha elections?

The country is divided into 543 constituencies for Lok Sabha elections. Signup and view all the answers

What are the members of State Assemblies called?

The members of State Assemblies are called Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs). Signup and view all the answers

How are constituencies divided at the local level?

At the local level, constituencies are divided into wards, with each ward electing one representative to the Panchayat or municipal body. Signup and view all the answers

How has the constitution ensured that the weaker sections of society also get representation in the Parliament and state assemblies?

The Constitution has implemented a system of reserved constituencies for the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, ensuring their representation in both the Parliament and state assemblies. Signup and view all the answers

How many seats are reserved for women in local bodies?

One-third of the total seats are reserved for women in local bodies. Signup and view all the answers

Seats reservation was later extended to other weaker sections at the district and local level. What are they called?

They are called Other Backward Classes (OBCs). Signup and view all the answers

What is the principle of Universal Adult Franchise?

The principle of Universal Adult Franchise means that every citizen above the age of 18 years has the right to vote, regardless of their caste, religion, gender, or economic status. Signup and view all the answers

What is the Photo Identity Card System?

The Photo Identity Card System requires every voter to carry a photo identity card when they go to vote to prevent impersonation and ensure that only eligible voters cast their votes. Signup and view all the answers

Anyone who can be a voter can also become a candidate in elections, but there is one difference. What is it?

The minimum age for a voter is 18 years, while the minimum age for a candidate is 25 years. Signup and view all the answers

What is a party ticket?

A party ticket is a nomination given by a political party to a candidate, allowing them to contest elections under the party's banner. Signup and view all the answers

How does a person file his/her nomination papers?

Individuals who wish to contest elections must fill a nomination form and deposit a security amount, which is typically a small sum of money. This is how they file their nomination papers. Signup and view all the answers

What are the legal declarations made by every party candidate?

Every party candidate must publicly disclose their assets and liabilities, their family's financial details, and their educational qualifications. Signup and view all the answers

Why has personal information of a candidate to be made public?.

Public disclosure of a candidate's personal information empowers voters to make informed decisions based on a candidate's background, financial standing, and educational qualifications, fostering transparency and accountability. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of election?

The main purpose of election is to give people a chance to choose their representatives, the government, and the policies they prefer. Signup and view all the answers

Why are election campaigns needed?

Election campaigns are essential for informing the public about the candidates and their policies, facilitating a healthy debate on important issues, and enabling voters to make informed choices. Signup and view all the answers

What is the time period of campaigning for elections?

The campaign period in India typically runs for two weeks between the announcement of the final list of candidates and the date of polling. Signup and view all the answers

How do the candidates attract the public during election?

Candidates attract the public through various means, including addressing election meetings, mobilizing supporters, utilizing media outlets like newspapers and television, and engaging on social media platforms. Signup and view all the answers

Mention any two slogans given by different parties in various elections.

Two prominent slogans from past elections are: 1. “Garibi Hatao” (Remove poverty), used by Indira Gandhi in 1971, and 2. “Save Democracy,” a slogan of the Janata Party during the 1977 Lok Sabha elections. Signup and view all the answers

Where is 'polling booth' located on election day?

Polling booths are typically located in accessible public spaces, such as schools, government buildings, or community centers. Signup and view all the answers

What is an electronic voting machine (EVM)?

An Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) is a system used to record votes electronically. It displays the names of the candidates and their party symbols, and voters can cast their vote by pressing a button corresponding to their chosen candidate. Signup and view all the answers

Who is the head of the Election Commission (EC)?

The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) heads the Election Commission of India. Signup and view all the answers

Mention one function of the Election Commission.

One of the main functions of the Election Commission is to enforce the Code of Conduct, which sets guidelines for fair and ethical campaigning by political parties and candidates, and to punish violations. Signup and view all the answers

How is people's participation in election measured?

People's participation in elections is measured by voter turnout, which is the percentage of eligible voters who actually cast their votes. Signup and view all the answers

Why do common people in India attach a lot of importance to elections?

People in India believe that elections give them the opportunity to hold political leaders accountable, influence government policies that directly impact their lives, and have a say in shaping the future of the country. Signup and view all the answers

Who vote in larger proportion in India?

In India, the poor, illiterate, and underprivileged sections of society tend to vote in larger proportions compared to wealthier and more privileged individuals. Signup and view all the answers

Are elections in India free and fair?

True (A) Signup and view all the answers

Give any one challenge of Indian Elections.

One major challenge faced by Indian elections is the dominance of certain families or political groups within major parties, limiting the opportunities for newer or less influential individuals to gain a foothold in politics. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by ‘seat' in elections? Explain with example.

In elections, a seat represents a single elected position in a legislative body. For instance, if we say that a party won 60 seats in a state assembly, it means that their candidates won 60 out of the total seats in that assembly. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by booth capturing?

Booth capturing is a serious violation of election rules and involves individuals or groups taking control of a polling booth, preventing legitimate voters from casting their ballots, and potentially manipulating the vote count. Signup and view all the answers

Who can be denied the right to vote?

Individuals convicted of serious crimes and those deemed to be of unsound mind are typically denied the right to vote. Signup and view all the answers

What slogan was given by Janata Party under the leadership of Jayaprakash Narayan in 1977 Lok Sabha election?

The Janata Party, under the leadership of Jayaprakash Narayan, used the slogan "Save Democracy" during the 1977 Lok Sabha election. Signup and view all the answers

Who used the slogan 'Protect the Self-Respect of the Telugus' in Andhra Pradesh Assembly elections in 1983?

N.T. Rama Rao, the leader of the Telugu Desam Party, used the slogan 'Protect the Self-Respect of the Telugus' in the 1983 Andhra Pradesh Assembly elections. Signup and view all the answers

What was the slogan of the Left Front in the West Bengal Assembly elections held in 1977?

The slogan of the Left Front in the 1977 West Bengal Assembly elections was "Land to the Tiller." Signup and view all the answers

What is the meaning of free and fair elections?

Free and fair elections are those where every eligible person can participate in the electoral process, cast their vote freely without any undue influence, and have their choice reflected in the results. Signup and view all the answers

When is National Voters' Day celebrated in India?

National Voters' Day is celebrated in India on January 25th every year. Signup and view all the answers

What do you mean by election? Why is it needed in a democracy?

Election is a method through which people can choose their representatives at regular intervals and have the option to change them if they wish. It is a crucial aspect of democracy because: Signup and view all the answers

What choices are given to voters during elections?

They can guide the party whose policies will guide the government and law-making. (A), They can choose who will make laws for them. (B), They can choose who will form the government and take major decisions. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Enumerate the demerits of an electoral competition?

Some of the demerits of electoral competition include: Disunity and factionalism within communities, Allegations and dirty tricks used by political parties and candidates, Unnecessary pressure to win elections, and hinderance in formulating long-term policies due to a focus on short-term gains. Signup and view all the answers

How is electoral competition helpful to political parties and leaders to win elections?

Electoral competition is helpful because it creates incentives for political parties and leaders to address issues that resonate with voters, work to improve their performance, and connect with people in a meaningful way. They understand that failing to do so can result in losing the next election, so they strive to live up to expectations and fulfill the promises they make. Signup and view all the answers

Explain any three conditions which make the election process more democratic.

Three conditions that make the election process more democratic are: One person, one vote, Regular elections, and Free and fair elections. Signup and view all the answers

How does our Election Law regulate campaigns?

Election law regulates campaigns to ensure fairness and prevent manipulation. It forbids various practices like bribing voters, appealing to them based on caste or religion, using government resources for campaigning, and exceeding spending limits. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by code of conduct? How does it control the activities of parties and Candidates?

A code of conduct is a set of guidelines established for political parties and candidates participating in elections to ensure fair play and ethical behavior. It outlines expectations regarding the use of government resources, campaigning methods, and conduct during the election period. Signup and view all the answers

What is an Election Commission? Who appoints the Chief Election Commissioner and how can he/she be removed?

The Election Commission of India is an independent body responsible for conducting free and fair elections. The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) is appointed by the President of India. The CEC is independent and not answerable to the president or the government, and their removal is extremely difficult, making them a highly independent body. This ensures their neutrality and prevents political influence in the administration of elections. Signup and view all the answers

How are results declared once the polling is over?

Once the polling process is complete, the EVMs are brought together in a secure location, where officials count the number of votes cast for each candidate. These results are then announced publicly, typically through the media and in official statements. Signup and view all the answers

What does the turnout figure indicate?

The turnout figure in an election represents the percentage of eligible voters who actually cast their votes. It reflects the level of participation in the democratic process and provides a measure of how engaged the public is in the election. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the procedure of voting on the polling day.

On election day, voters go to their assigned polling booth, where their identity is verified. They then cast their vote either by pressing a button on an electronic voting machine (EVM) or by marking an X next to their preferred candidate on a ballot paper. Once the vote is cast, a mark is made on the voter's finger as a record of their participation to prevent multiple voting. Signup and view all the answers

Give three reasons why the system of reserved constituencies was introduced by the constitution makers in India.

Three key reasons for implementing reserved constituencies in India are: To address historical inequalities and ensure fair representation for marginalized communities, to provide a level playing field for those groups who may face barriers in contesting elections due to factors like social or economic disadvantages, and to promote greater political empowerment for these communities. Signup and view all the answers

How can you say that Election Commission of India is independent and powerful?

The Election Commission of India is independent and powerful as it can reprimand the government for its shortcomings, conduct re-polls if irregularities are detected, and maintain its independence even if the ruling party or government disagrees with its actions, ensuring a fair and impartial process. It also holds significant authority during elections, with government officials operating under its control and its orders carrying significant weight. This independent status allows the Election Commission to act as a neutral body, ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and transparently. Signup and view all the answers

What are the minimum conditions for a democratic election? Enlist them.

Minimum conditions for a democratic election are: Signup and view all the answers

What are the main functions of the Election Commission of India?

The main functions of the Election Commission of India include: Signup and view all the answers

Code of Conduct is a set of norms and guidelines to be followed by political parties and contesting candidates during election time.

True (A) Signup and view all the answers

Who used the slogan 'Land to the tiller'?

The slogan 'Land to the Tiller' was used by the Left Front during the West Bengal Assembly elections in 1977. Signup and view all the answers

How are representatives elected in a democracy?

In a democracy, representatives are elected through a process of free and fair elections, where citizens have the right to vote for the candidates they believe best represent their interests and values. Signup and view all the answers

What is the Electoral Roll?

The Electoral Roll is a comprehensive list of eligible voters in each constituency, maintained by the Election Commission to ensure that only registered voters are allowed to participate in elections. Signup and view all the answers

What does the word 'Code of conduct' signify?

The term 'Code of Conduct' signifies a set of rules and guidelines that dictate ethical behavior and standards of conduct for political parties and candidates during elections, ensuring a fair competition environment and preventing unethical practices. Signup and view all the answers

Define the following: Universal Adult Franchise, Election Photo Identity Card, Voters' List.

Universal Adult Franchise: The right of all adult citizens to vote in elections, regardless of their caste, religion, gender, or economic status. Signup and view all the answers

Define the following: Electronic Voting Machine, Ballot Paper, Election Day.

Electronic Voting Machine (EVM): A device designed to record votes electronically, replacing the traditional paper ballot system. It displays the names and symbols of candidates, and voters can cast their vote by pressing a button corresponding to their preferred choice. Signup and view all the answers

Discuss the importance of election manifesto.

Election manifestos are crucial documents in a democracy, as they outline the political party's vision, plans, and promises for the future. They articulate how the party intends to address the issues that matter to the people and the policies they will implement if elected to power. Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Democratic Election

An election where everyone has one vote, each vote has equal value, candidates can freely contest, elections are free and fair, and elected candidates represent the people's choice.

Electoral Competition (Merits)

Electoral competition motivates political leaders to serve the people, raises important issues, and provides incentives for parties and leaders.

Electoral Competition (Demerits)

Competition can lead to accusations, dirty tricks, disunity, and factionalism, hindering the development of sensible long-term policies.

Election System

A system where the country is divided into constituencies, and candidates compete for seats in these areas.